He replaces John Anderson, who didn't return after two years with the Coyotes.

The 51-year-old Brown spent the past three seasons with Vancouver, working on a staff that helped lead the Canucks to the Presidents' Trophy in consecutive seasons and a trip to the 2011 Stanley Cup finals.

Brown also has served as an assistant coach for Anaheim, Columbus and Chicago in an NHL career that dates to the 1996-97 season. He also was the head coach for four seasons with Adirondack, the Detroit Red Wings' AHL affiliate.